BMW is recalling 720,796 vehicles across the United States because a defective electrical connector on the water pump could short-circuit and cause a fire, even when a vehicle is parked and turned off.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued an urgent consumer alert Friday, November 13, advising owners of affected vehicles to park outside and away from buildings and other vehicles until the problem is repaired. The recall covers certain BMW models from 2012 through 2018.

The defect involves an improperly sealed electrical connector on the water pump that can become exposed to moisture. Water entering the connector could cause an electrical short circuit and increase the risk of a fire.

BMW is aware of approximately 10 incidents in the United States that may be connected to the problem. No crashes or injuries have been reported. The affected vehicles were previously included in a 2024 recall involving a water pump issue, but vehicles that already received repairs under that recall will need another repair.

The recall includes certain 2012–2016 BMW 3 Series and 5 Series models, 2012–2015 X1 models, 2012–2016 Z4 models, 2013–2017 X3 models, 2014–2016 2 Series and 4 Series models, 2014–2016 3 Series Sportswagons and 328xi Gran Turismo models, 2015–2018 X4 models and 2016–2018 X5 xDrive40e models.

BMW is still developing a repair, which will be provided free of charge at dealerships once available. Owner notification letters are expected to begin arriving December 25, 2026. Vehicle identification numbers and license plate numbers will also be searchable through the NHTSA recall database beginning that day.

Until the repair is completed, federal officials are urging owners not to park affected vehicles inside garages or near buildings and other vehicles. Owners can contact BMW at 800-525-7417 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 for additional information.